How to Replace Shocks on a GMC

by Zyon SilketUpdated November 07, 2017

Items you will need

Tire iron

Jack

Jack stands

Socket set

On GMC trucks and SUVs, you will find four shocks, one for each wheel. The shocks mount between the body of the GMC and the lower suspension. This helps provide passengers inside the vehicle a comfortable ride by reducing vibrations due to imperfections in the road. Once the gas inside the shock dissipates and your GMC starts bouncing up and down, your ride comfort diminishes. When this happens, you should replace the shocks.

Loosen the lug nuts on the tire you need to remove using the tire iron supplied with the vehicle.

Place a jack under the frame on the corner of the vehicle from which you want to remove the tire. Jack up the GMC until you can fit a jack stand under the frame and then lower the GMC onto the jack stand.

Remove the lug nuts using the tire iron and pull the wheel off the GMC.

Remove the bolt that secures the lower shock mount to the lower shock absorber using a socket and ratchet.

Remove the bolt that secures the upper shock mount to the upper shock absorber using a socket and ratchet. Pull the shock free from the suspension.

Place the upper shock mount of the new shock into the upper shock hoop and secure it using the bolt, socket and ratchet.

Place the lower shock mount of the new shock into the lower shock hoop and secure it using the bolt, socket and ratchet.

Place the wheel back onto the GMC, thread the lug nuts onto the wheel studs and tighten them a quarter-turn with the tire iron.

Jack the GMC up, remove the jack stand and lower the vehicle to the ground.

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